UK bus market hits 17-year high – SMMT
The UK bus market grew 10.4% last year to reach 9,259 units, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
That made it the best performance in sales of buses, coaches and minibuses in 17 years.
Sales fell 28% in the final quarter due to declining minibus registrations, but that was offset by strong performances in the first nine months with growth driven by single and double-deck bus and coach deliveries, which was up 24.9% and 25.5% respectively.
Growth was sharpest in Scotland, up 162.3% to 1,188 units, although England accounted for 82.8% of the market, with registrations up 4.8% to 7,671 units.
Meanwhile, zero emission vehicle uptake rose 62.2% to 2,523 units, representing 27.3% of all new public transport vehicles joining the road.
Strong growth
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Strong growth in Britain’s bus, coach and minibus market is clear evidence of an industry committed to cleaner, reliable and accessible transportation for all.
“The substantial increase in the uptake of zero emission vehicles has been enabled by significant manufacturer investment and targeted government schemes, but momentum must be maintained. Upgrading bus fleets can be complex and costly – challenges that industry and government must address together so Britain can maintain its leadership in green public transport and accelerate our journey towards net zero.”
